Parks are a common topic in IELTS Speaking tests, particularly when discussing leisure activities or favorite places. The ability to describe a park you enjoy visiting for relaxation is a valuable skill that can help you score well in various parts of the speaking exam. Let’s explore how to effectively answer questions related to this theme.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask you some general questions about parks and relaxation. Here are some possible questions and sample answers:
Question: Do you often visit parks?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I do. I try to visit parks at least once a week, usually on weekends. It’s a nice way to spend some time outdoors and get some fresh air.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Absolutely! I make it a point to frequent parks regularly, typically two to three times a week. It’s not just a leisure activity for me; it’s become an integral part of my routine for maintaining both physical and mental well-being. The tranquil environment of parks provides an excellent escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Part 2: Long Turn
Here’s a sample cue card related to the topic:
Describe a park you enjoy visiting for relaxation.
You should say:
- Where the park is located
- What features the park has
- What activities you do there
- And explain why you find it relaxingBand 6-7 Answer:
The park I enjoy visiting is located in the center of my city. It’s quite big and has a lot of green space. There are walking paths, a small lake, and several benches where people can sit and relax.
When I go there, I usually take a walk around the lake or sit on a bench to read a book. Sometimes I meet friends there for a picnic.
I find it relaxing because it’s quiet and away from the noise of the city. The trees and flowers make it feel peaceful, and I can forget about my stress when I’m there.
Band 8-9 Answer:
The park I’m particularly fond of is nestled in the heart of our city’s historic district. It’s an expansive green oasis that spans several acres, seamlessly blending natural beauty with thoughtfully designed recreational spaces.
One of the park’s most striking features is its meticulously manicured botanical garden, which showcases an impressive variety of local and exotic flora. The park also boasts a serene artificial lake, complete with a quaint wooden bridge that’s perfect for peaceful strolls or admiring the sunset. For the more active visitors, there are well-maintained jogging trails and open grassy areas ideal for yoga or tai chi.
When I visit, I often engage in a myriad of activities depending on my mood. On energetic days, I might join a group for some outdoor yoga or take a brisk walk along the winding pathways. For more contemplative moments, I find a quiet spot by the lake to practice mindfulness or simply lose myself in a good book.
What makes this park particularly relaxing for me is its ability to transport me away from the urban chaos just outside its boundaries. The lush greenery acts as a natural sound barrier, muffling the city noise and creating a tranquil atmosphere. The sight of families enjoying picnics, children playing, and elderly couples taking leisurely walks reminds me of life’s simple pleasures. This park serves as my personal sanctuary, where I can recharge my batteries and find a sense of inner peace amidst the demands of daily life.
A serene park with a tranquil lake surrounded by lush trees
Follow-up questions:
- How often do you visit this park?
- Has the park changed since you first started visiting it?
Band 6-7 Answer:
- I try to visit this park at least once a week, usually on weekends when I have more free time.
- Yes, the park has changed a bit. They’ve added some new playground equipment for children and improved the walking paths.
Band 8-9 Answer:
I make it a point to frequent this urban oasis at least twice a week. It’s become such an integral part of my routine that I often find myself gravitating towards it even on busy weekdays, if only for a brief respite.
Indeed, the park has undergone some notable transformations since I first started visiting. The local authorities have implemented several eco-friendly initiatives, such as installing solar-powered lighting and introducing native plant species to promote biodiversity. They’ve also enhanced accessibility by adding ramps and sensory gardens, making it more inclusive for all community members.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Question: Do you think cities should invest more in public parks?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I think cities should invest more in public parks. They’re important for people’s health and well-being. Parks give people a place to exercise and relax, which is especially important in busy cities. They also help to make the air cleaner and the city more beautiful.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Absolutely, I’m a firm believer that cities should prioritize investment in public parks. These green spaces serve multiple crucial functions in urban environments. Firstly, they act as ‘green lungs’ for cities, helping to mitigate air pollution and combat the urban heat island effect. This environmental benefit is increasingly important as we face the challenges of climate change.
Secondly, parks play a vital role in public health and well-being. They provide accessible spaces for physical activity, which is essential in combating sedentary lifestyles and related health issues. Moreover, the mental health benefits of green spaces are well-documented, offering urban dwellers a much-needed escape from the stresses of city life.
Furthermore, parks contribute significantly to social cohesion and community building. They serve as egalitarian spaces where people from all walks of life can interact, fostering a sense of community that’s often lacking in urban environments.
Lastly, from an economic perspective, well-maintained parks can increase property values in surrounding areas and attract tourism, potentially generating revenue for the city. Therefore, investing in parks is not just an expense, but a multi-faceted investment in the city’s future.
People of various ages and backgrounds enjoying different park activities
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
Urban oasis [ˈɜːrbən əʊˈeɪsɪs] (noun phrase): A peaceful, green area in a city.
Example: “The park serves as an urban oasis in the heart of our bustling metropolis.”Tranquil [ˈtræŋkwɪl] (adjective): Calm and peaceful.
Example: “The tranquil atmosphere of the park helps me unwind after a stressful day.”To recharge one’s batteries (idiom): To rest and relax in order to regain energy and enthusiasm.
Example: “I visit the park regularly to recharge my batteries and face the week ahead with renewed vigor.”Meticulously manicured [məˈtɪkjələsli ˈmænɪkjʊəd] (adjective phrase): Very carefully and precisely maintained.
Example: “The park’s meticulously manicured lawns are a testament to the groundskeepers’ dedication.”To lose oneself in something (phrasal verb): To become completely absorbed in an activity.
Example: “I often lose myself in a good book while sitting on a park bench.”
Examiner’s Advice
To score high in the IELTS Speaking test when discussing parks and relaxation:
- Use a variety of descriptive adjectives to paint a vivid picture of the park.
- Incorporate idiomatic expressions naturally to demonstrate language fluency.
- Discuss both the physical features of the park and your emotional connection to it.
- Practice speaking about different aspects of parks, from environmental benefits to social importance.
- Be prepared to link the topic of parks to broader themes like urban planning, public health, or community development.
Remember, the key to a high score is not just about what you say, but how you say it. Aim for fluency, coherence, and a wide range of vocabulary and grammatical structures.
Individual practicing public speaking skills in a peaceful park setting
If you’re looking for more practice on similar topics, you might find it helpful to describe a favorite place in your country to relax or describe a place in your city you often visit for leisure. These exercises can help you expand your vocabulary and improve your ability to discuss various relaxation spots eloquently.